What Is Editorial Photography? Style, Meaning and Real-World Uses

Editorial photography is a style of photography used to tell a story, communicate an idea, or add visual context to written content. It is most commonly seen in magazines, newspapers, online publications, reports, and personal branding features.

Unlike commercial photography, which is created to directly sell a product or service, editorial photography focuses on narrative, character and authenticity.

What does “editorial” mean in photography?

In photography, “editorial” refers to images that are created to support an article, profile, or story. The images are informative or expressive rather than promotional.

Editorial photographs often:

• Appear alongside written content

• Show people in real or believable environments

• Feel natural rather than overly polished

• Emphasise mood, character and context

This is why editorial photography is widely used for:

• Magazine features

• University profiles

• Academic and professional publications

• Personal branding articles

• Thought-leadership content

What is editorial photography used for?

Editorial photography is used when the goal is to communicate credibility and personality, rather than sell something directly.

Common uses include:

• Profile pieces and interviews

• Academic or research publications

• Business and leadership features

• Personal branding for consultants, creatives and executives

• Corporate storytelling and PR

In these contexts, the photography supports the message rather than competing with it.

Editorial photography vs commercial photography

Although they can look similar, the purpose is different.

Editorial photography

• Supports a story or article

• Feels natural and observational

• Prioritises authenticity over perfection

• Often used in publications and profiles

  
  

Commercial photography

• Promotes a product, service or brand

• More controlled and stylised

• Created for advertising or marketing campaigns

The same photographer may shoot both styles, but the intent is what defines editorial work.

What is the editorial photography style?

Editorial photography often has a relaxed, natural feel. Lighting, posing and composition are used carefully, but the final images are not meant to look overly staged.

Typical characteristics include:

• Real locations rather than studio backdrops

• Natural or soft lighting

• Minimal retouching

• Thoughtful composition that supports the story

This style helps subjects feel approachable, credible and human.

Editorial portraits and editorial headshots

Editorial photography often overlaps with portraiture, particularly in professional and academic settings.

An editorial portrait or editorial headshot:

• Shows personality and presence

• Is less rigid than a traditional corporate headshot

• Works well for profiles, features and publications

This style is popular with:

• Academics and researchers

• Business leaders and consultants

• Creatives and public figures

If you’re deciding between styles, editorial portraits sit between classic corporate headshots and lifestyle photography.

When should you choose editorial photography?

Editorial photography is a good choice if you need images that:

• Accompany written content

• Reflect expertise and credibility

• Feel authentic and considered

• Work across publications, websites and PR

It is particularly effective when your image needs to support your voice, ideas or research.

Commissioning editorial photography in Oxford

If you’re commissioning editorial photography in Oxford or Oxfordshire, it’s worth working with a photographer who understands how images are used in real publications, not just marketing materials.

This includes:

• Planning images around the narrative

• Choosing locations that add context

• Creating photographs that work across print and digital

You can find more about my approach to professional and editorial photography here.